Game Thread: Raptors vs. Nets updates, TV info, and more

Can the Toronto Raptors possibly be any more buzz-worthy?

Between a 15-game win streak and the scarf beef heard ‘round the world, it seems like Raptors fans are getting what they craved for dozens of years before this current roster and what Utah Jazz fans are so desperate for — the attention of every working NBA writer and TV personality.

They’ve earned it too. The win streak hasn’t been a dull march through opposition. It’s featured comebacks, a bevy of games missed due to injury, and a strong display of championship D.N.A. that can be intoxicating for the uninitiated.

And for those wanting more buzz: you’ll get it if the Raptors beat the Brooklyn Nets tonight. Heading into the All-Star break on a 16-game streak is a great feather in the cap for a team that sends two players and a coaching staff to Chicago, and it’s a topic that will surely be brought up plenty during the weekend’s festivities.

For tonight, the Raptors get the services of Serge Ibaka — who wrapped himself in scarves, sweat out his flu, and is returning to the starting lineup.

The Nets continue to play without Kyrie Irving, who is having further work done on a knee sprain. Toronto is familiar with this version of Brooklyn anyway, as they were the 14th win in the aforementioned win streak just last Saturday.

Now, let’s get into the game details and watch some meaningful basketball. You’ll miss it when it’s gone... even if it’s just for nine days!

Where to Watch

TSN, 7:30pm ET

Lineups

Toronto — Kyle Lowry, Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby, Pascal Siakam, Serge Ibaka

Brooklyn — Caris LeVert, Spencer Dinwiddie, Joe Harris, Taurean Prince, Jarrett Allen

Injuries

Toronto — Marc Gasol (out - hamstring), Norman Powell (out - finger), Dewan Hernandez (out - ankle sprain)

Brooklyn — Kyrie Irving (out - knee sprain), Kevin Durant (out - Achilles)